The Power of Feedback in Developing Resilient Learners

Feedback can be empowering and life-altering. But the power of feedback can only benefit when the giver and the receiver are on the same page, which is focusing on improvement. 

While it is easy to share and receive positive feedback, it gets complicated when highlighting points for improvement. But depending on how the feedback is communicated and how accepting the receiver is, negative feedback can be steps towards growth, enhancement, and development. 

Indeed, there is no specific set of rules that dictates how to give or receive feedback. But by following the below-mentioned simple protocols you can ensure your feedback is well-received and you are always open to receiving feedback and working on it!

When Giving Feedback

Remember the following points when offering feedback:

Give it with care – the intention behind giving feedback should be to help and not hurt the receiver. So, make sure you choose your words carefully and be sincere when sharing your feedback.

Let the recipient invite it – feedback is most effective when the receiver invites it because it means that the recipient is prepared to hear about what they can improve or work on. 

Be specific - your feedback will only be useful when you are specific as to what needs to be changed or worked on. Be direct and if possible, mention the exact action or behaviour that requires reformation. 

Speak for yourself – it is best to talk about what you have witnessed. Don’t bring in other people’s views and opinions.

Make the feedback readily actionable – make sure your feedback is actionable by the receiver. The receiver should be able to work on the feedback and make improvements. 

When Receiving Feedback

To reap the maximum benefit from feedback, make sure you follow the below steps:

Breathe – yes, that's it! It sounds too simple but can be really helpful, especially when receiving negative comments. Just breathe deeply to keep your brain calm and focused. It will also help your body relax. 

Listen carefully – you can only utilise the feedback for your improvement if you listen carefully. Don’t defend yourself or justify, just be attentive to the feedback being given.

Clarify your understanding of the feedback – if you aren't sure of what the feedback is about, ask for specific references or instances. You need to know exactly what you need to work on and so ask questions, if necessary. 

Summarise your understanding of the feedback – to ensure that you have understood what the feedback is about, summarise it and confirm with the feedback giver.

Take time to sort out what you heard – the most important part of receiving feedback is to work on it. To do that, take time to sort through what you heard, how you feel about it, and what you think you can do. 

How Feedback is Utilised in the First Certified Visible Learning School in the World, AISM? 

AISM - the first fully certified Visible Learning school in the world - understands the importance of feedback since it is one of the pillars of the learning methodology followed at the school. Students as well as teachers thrive on a mutual feedback system that assists the teachers, students, as well as parents in understanding how a student is faring in their education and ways in which the teachers can help the students further in their learning journey. This continuous feedback system ensures that there are no gaps when it comes to education and all students receive the guidance and support they require, to reach their full potential. 

If you are keen to know more about how AISM utilises a sturdy and multi-faceted feedback system to help students with their learning, do join the AISM open week from 14 – 18 November 2022. For more information, visit https://bit.ly/AISMOpenWeekMK.

This content is provided by The Australian International School Malaysia

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